2013 Lincoln MKZ - 2012 New York Auto Show

Production-trim MKZ stays true to concept.

On the heels of the MKZ Concept's debut at the Detroit Auto Show, Lincoln introduced the production version of the MKZ at the 2012 New York Auto Show. And from what's been unveiled, it looks like the concept wasn't just a radical styling buck to garner media attention, but much more a first look at the new midsize sedan.

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2013 Lincoln MKZ

Take for example the 2013 Lincoln MKZ's stylized rear fascia, sloping rear greenhouse, broad shoulder lines, squinty headlights and dual center grilles--they are all elements that have carried over from the concept into the production model. Even the dramatic panoramic roof made its way into the showroom-bound version. Measuring 15.2 sq. ft., the glass panel is boasted by Lincoln to be the largest opening of any current sedan. Moreover, look for much of the design language on the new MKZ to trickle its way into future Lincoln products.

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2013 Lincoln MKZ

Three engines have been announced for the 2013 Lincoln MKZ: a turbo I-4, naturally aspirated V-6 and a hybrid. The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine will produce around 240 bhp and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. Lincoln projects the turbo-4's fuel economy at 22 city/33 highway, the latter figure realizing an increase of 20 percent from the outgoing 2012 MKZ model's. The 3.7-liter V-6 will make close to 300 bhp and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, an increase of 37 bhp or so from the previous V-6. Fuel efficiency for the V-6 is estimated at 18 city/ 26 highway. The hybrid powertrain utilizes a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that is rated at 141 bhp--combined with the electric motor, Lincoln says the MKZ Hybrid will put out 188 hp. Lincoln offers no mpg predictions for the hybrid but expects the 2013 MKZ Hybrid to remain North America's most fuel efficient premium sedan. Lincoln has yet to certify the performance numbers so the official figures may change.

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2013 Lincoln MKZ

The two non-hybrid MKZ models, the turbo-4 and V-6, will use a 6-speed automatic transmission equipped with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The MKZ Hybrid on the other hand, will use a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, while all-wheel drive is optional. A new Push Button Shift system replaces the conventional mechanical shift lever. Instead of manually sliding the shift lever into Park, Neutral, Reverse or Drive, the 2013 MKZ will use five buttons to switch among transmission modes.

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2013 Lincoln MKZ

Lincoln Drive Control is now standard on the new MKZ. The three mode system (Comfort, Normal, Sport) adjusts the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension, electric power-assisted steering, engine, transmission, Active Noise Control (ANC), traction control and stability control systems for varying dynamic driving experiences.

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2013 Lincoln MKZ

Tech features, rich appointments and safety measures also come standard in the cabin of the new MKZ. A 10.1-in. LCD screen in the gauge cluster and 8-in. LCD in the center console both take advantage of the latest version of the MyLincoln Touch. Responsibly harvested wood, supple leather and an 11-speaker audio system all echo the premium nature of the Lincoln. Eight airbags come standard and the new MKZ will offer inflatable rear safety belts. This new restraining system can disperse impact forces of an accident across an area five times that of a traditional seat belt.

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